Federal, Sabah Governments Strengthen Tourism Collaboration

LABUAN, Feb 25 (Bernama) -- The Federal Government and the Sabah State Government have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening tourism collaboration to boost economic growth in both regions.  

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa said she discussed tourism and economic issues concerning Labuan and Sabah with Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Mohd Noor during a meeting at his office in Kota Kinabalu on Monday.  

“The Federal Territories Department (JWP) and the Sabah State Government have agreed that organising international-level events will attract more visitors and enhance the region’s tourism industry,” she told Bernama today.  

Also present at the meeting were JWP Director General Datuk Noridah Abdul Rahim, Labuan Corporation (LC) chairman Senator Tan Sri Anifah Aman, LC chief executive officer Mohd Sukuran Taib, and other JWP officials.  

Zaliha said she also briefed Hajiji on key upcoming tourism events, including the Labuan International Sea Challenge (LISC) in April 2025 and the Borneo Flora Festival (BFF) in July 2025, both expected to draw over 50,000 visitors.  

“These events aim to stimulate local economic activity and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and tourism players in Labuan and Sabah,” she said.

She added that discussions also covered the Labuan-Menumbok Bridge, which is expected to significantly improve accessibility and economic integration between Labuan and Sabah.  

“This visit underscores the MADANI Government’s commitment to making Labuan a competitive and sustainable economic hub,” she said.  

Zaliha said JWP would continue working with the Sabah State Government to ensure the successful implementation of tourism and economic initiatives for the benefit of the people and the overall prosperity of the federal territory. 

-- BERNAMA